Europa coin programme

The Europa Coin Programme, also known as the European Silver Programme,[1] or the Eurostar Programme,[1] is an initiative dedicated to the issuance of collector-oriented legal tender coins in precious metals to celebrate European identity. The issuing authorities of EU member countries voluntarily contribute coins to the Europa Coin Programme. Multiple countries have participated in the programme, beginning in 2004. Some coins are denominated in euro, others are denominated in other currencies. Europa coins are legal tender.[2]

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The Eurostar logo is the special mark used on coins to indicate participation in the Europa Coin Programme.[3] It is a stylised combination of an "E" for Europe (or the euro symbol), and a star (often used to symbolize a nation, e.g. on the EU flag). Coins must show the Eurostar distinctly and visibly to the naked eye, but not be integral to the coin's design.[1]